Coronavirus: Mayor's 'stay safe' plea as groups flout advice on social distancing

It comes as groups of people appeared to flout advice on social distancing, with police officers tasked to deal with crowds of young people across east Antrim on Friday night.

There were also reports of full car parks at a number of beauty spots in the borough on Sunday.

Writing on Facebook over the weekend, Cllr Morrow said: "We have been asked to stay at home, unless for key workers or those doing food shops. Then why can I ask is the Antrim Coast Road bumper to bumper, car parks packed, caravan parks full and camper vans parked up all over the place?

"I have viewed pictures on [Facebook] and read comments about where people are and what they are doing. Maybe you are enjoying yourself today, but where will you be next Sunday - stop and think hard. Will you be well, or will you be another Covid-19 statistic?

"Maybe you think you will do or come to no harm. But who last touched that railing you just held? Who was the last person to open that gate or door handle? This virus is easily spread from one to another. Think about your family what risks are you taking with your life and theirs.

"We have doctors, nurses and other health professionals putting their lives at risk dealing with those already ill. Have respect for their lives and support them in what they are doing by staying home and trying to slow down the spread. Please help every one to stay safe and stay well."

The Mayor added: “I would also ask everyone to have consideration for each other when you shop in supermarkets, pharmacies and butcheries. The shopkeepers and staff are doing their best to make sure supplies will be available every week during this crisis. Please respect the staff and co-operate with their requests. It is for your safety and the safety of others.”

Meanwhile, all parks and community centres across the borough have been closed, along with all unstaffed public toilets.

Household recycling centres will remain open for the time being, with new measures in place including a limit to the number of visitors at any one time.